You woz robbed

[bobleponge]

But any Irish football fans reading this wont need me to tell them that.
I can only imagine how gutted you must feel, should be you going to South Africa not the French.

[Pete C]

It's interesting because FIFA are always gobbing off about how cheating must be eradicated from the game, and then say they can't take action because when it happens it falls under the auspices of the FA, UEFA or some other body. Now that Terry Henry has effectively pooped on their doorstep, I expect that FIFA will remain incredibly silent on the matter.

[bobleponge]

Indeed. An interesting one for the current head of FIFA, being a Frenchman.
There is every chance that had an Irish player used his hand, scored a goal and it had been awarded, he wouldnt have explained to the ref that in fact he had cheated, thats the rub of the game etc but in open play the Irish had at least 3 great chances to score.
The fact they were knocked out by a blatantly offside and hand assisted goal just makes things worse.

[sweetiepea]

Not being a football fan at all, but following strong persuasion from the OH last night, I did actually see most of the game. Begrudgingly I have to say that I actually kind of enjoyed it - well most of it.

Yes the result was disappointing, not just because of how it came about, but particularly because this country is in dire need of a confidence boost, and something to unite us. The economy, corruption and cuts are killing us (except the fat cats that is - they don't have to pay tax).

Being part of the world cup would have been fantastic for moral (even if we have no chance of winning). Jack's army left a lasting mark on us and it would be great to revive it again, but alas .....

(Sorry guys. I didn't mean this to be a rant )

[bramble]

Yes Bob, we really were robbed. I have never seen the boys play so well. They put their heart and soul into it.
Moral is low today with everyone grumbling about the unfairness of it.
Like Sweetiepea says, we could have done with a boost as the bottom is falling out of the country at the moment.

[bobleponge]

Not that this will make things any easier to bear, but have had the radio on all day in the garden (beautiful here today) and the sole topic has been "that" handball, and what should be done about it etc etc. They are delighted to be going to SA, but actually quite embarrased in the manner of getting there. Havent heard too many French voices for a sudden death rematch though...

[bramble]

Thanks for the update Bob, but as we all know, that's the end of Ireland qualifying for the near future.